Indiana City to Protect Itself From Festival Suits

A north-central Indiana city with a rich history tied to circuses wants to protect itself from being liable for any accidents that might occur during its annual circus-themed festival.

Peru Clerk-Treasurer Jackie Gray tells The Peru Tribune two people filed tort claims against the city last year for injuries they suffered during the Circus City Festival.

Mark Allen of city and festival insurer Webster Insurance Agency says the festival plans to add a clause to its insurance policy that would hold the festival or its vendors, and not the city, responsible for any such accidents.

The Circus City Festival dates from 1960 and draws about 10,000 people each July to Peru, which once served as the winter home for numerous circuses.